The Boyd Group of papers on: The use of non-human primates in research and testing (2003)

Smith, J. A., Boyd, K. M. e.

Abstract

Every effort should be made to minimize the social deprivation, mental suffering, and/or physical harms caused to the animals [p. 96]. .. Unless specifically justified, infants should remain with their mothers until they are no longer dependent on them. .. The minimum cage sizes for both marmosets and macaques detailed in the Home Office guidance (1989), and the European standards, are inadequate - particularly in respect of vertical dimensions of cages - and do not reflect current best practices [p. 97]. .. Every effort should be made to train non-human primates to accept routine scientific procedures, and so minimise the stress caused to the animals. .. Although more difficult for marmosets, such training is usually possible for macaques, and is particularly important for repeated procedures [p. 97].